World Cup 2026: Egypt can shock ‘favourites’ Belgium – Former coach Patrick Cremers

Egyptian football fans are eagerly anticipating the Pharaohs’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Belgium, a high-profile Group G encounter that could set the tone for their campaign.

Egypt, led by head coach Hossam Hassan, are targeting their first-ever World Cup victory as they line up in a group that also includes Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. The Pharaohs will open their campaign against Belgium before facing New Zealand and concluding the group stage against Iran.

Speaking in an interview, former Belgium youth team goalkeeping coach Patrick Cremers acknowledged Belgium’s strength but insisted the group remains competitive.

“Belgium are favourites on paper, but Egypt have enough quality to be dangerous,” he said. “The match could be decided by Belgium’s ability to break down Egypt’s compact defence.”

He warned that Egypt’s counter-attacking threat, led by Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, could trouble Belgium if they are not careful.

“I expect Belgium to dominate possession, while Egypt will stay organised and look to strike quickly on the counter,” he added.

Cremers predicted Belgium would top the group, with Egypt finishing second, followed by Iran and New Zealand.

Despite Belgium’s status, Cremers insisted Egypt should not be underestimated.

“Egypt have world-class attacking talent. Salah and Marmoush can punish any defence,” he said. “They look more balanced than previous Egyptian teams and have a clear identity under Hossam Hassan.”

He added that Egypt’s disciplined structure and defensive organisation could make them difficult to beat, especially if they stay in the game deep into the match.

“If Egypt remain compact for 90 minutes, they can get a result. A draw would not be a surprise.”

Cremers also assessed Belgium’s current generation, highlighting both strengths and vulnerabilities.

He praised Kevin De Bruyne’s creativity, Jeremy Doku’s explosiveness, and Romelu Lukaku’s goal threat, while noting Thibaut Courtois’ continued importance.

However, he warned that Belgium’s defence remains a concern compared to their golden generation.

“The current defence is the weakest part of the team,” he said, referencing the era of Vincent Kompany, Jan Vertonghen, and Toby Alderweireld.

He believes Belgium’s best hope in the tournament is reaching the quarter-finals, citing strong competition from France, Spain, Brazil, and Argentina.

Cremers also highlighted the challenges facing Egypt’s goalkeepers against Belgium’s attack, particularly the movement and creativity of De Bruyne and the pace of Doku.

“The goalkeeper will face one-on-one situations, quick crosses, rebounds, and set pieces. Communication with the defence will be crucial,” he said.

He stressed that modern goalkeeping is less about spectacular saves and more about preventing danger before it develops.

While Belgium enter the fixture as favourites, Egypt’s attacking quality and tactical discipline suggest they could make the encounter far closer than expected. With Salah leading the charge, the Pharaohs will hope to begin their World Cup journey with a statement performance against one of Europe’s top sides.